'Massive' ancient building found in Egypt

Egypt says archaeologists have discovered a "massive" ancient building in the town of Mit Rahina, 20 kilometres south of Cairo.

The Antiquities Ministry said on Tuesday that archaeologists also uncovered an attached building that includes a large Roman bath and a chamber likely for religious rituals.

Mostafa Waziri, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, said the building is likely part of the residential block of the area, which was the ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis.

Memphis, founded around 3100 BC, was home to Menes, the king who united Upper and Lower Egypt.

Egypt hopes such discoveries will spur tourism, partially driven by antiquities sightseeing, which was hit hard by political turmoil following the 2011 uprising.